Just as a festival might attract a singer who's too for radio, Chicago's scene is a good place to hear singing in the '60s/'70s sense. For decades, has been an important part of the menu in many of the Windy City's clubs -- Chicago is full of talented singers who are also talented singers, and few of the city's clubs are going to reject someone simply because he/she doesn't stick to the 12-bar format 100 percent of the time. , in fact, is an important part of what does on her first release, , which was recorded in 1996, 2000, and 2001. The gritty, big-voiced Chicago resident (originally from Norfolk, VA) offers plenty of Chicago-style on this CD, including and 's But for , being -oriented doesn't mean being a purist, and she brings a healthy appreciation of classic, pre- to Another highlight of the album is which gives a somewhat -ish makeover. can also handle , although she sticks to secular lyrics on (except for which was a hit for ). No one will accuse of being an innovator; while were the leaders, is among the followers. But if is derivative, she's also expressive, highly enjoyable, and good at what she does. Anyone who has spent a lot of time listening to , , and similar vocalists should have no problem getting into . ~ Alex Henderson